Installing new laminate flooring is an exciting home improvement, but there’s always the lingering question: how soon can you put furniture on laminate flooring?
You’re likely eager to move everything back in, but placing heavy items too soon could risk damaging your fresh floor. Laminate flooring is durable, but giving it the right amount of time to settle is crucial.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the right steps to ensure your laminate floor stays in great condition while offering practical tips on how to protect it.
How Soon Can You Put Furniture on Laminate Flooring?
When it comes to how soon can you put furniture on laminate flooring, the short answer is to wait at least 24 to 48 hours after installation. This time frame allows the flooring to acclimate to its environment and ensures that the adhesive or the interlocking mechanisms in floating floors have settled securely.
Moving furniture too early could cause the planks to shift, buckle, or separate, leading to long-term damage. By being patient and waiting the recommended time, you’ll preserve the integrity of your new flooring.
Why Waiting is Important: Settling and Curing Time
Acclimatization of the Floor
Laminate flooring needs time to acclimate to the temperature and humidity of your home. Even if you used floating floors, which don’t require glue, the planks still need time to adjust. Without proper acclimatization, the boards can expand or contract, creating gaps or lifting at the edges.
Adhesive Curing (If Used)
For laminate flooring installed using adhesives, curing time is essential. Adhesives typically require 24-48 hours to fully harden. During this period, the glue achieves its maximum strength, ensuring a secure bond between the planks and the subfloor. Placing heavy furniture too soon could disrupt this process, leading to uneven surfaces and a weakened bond.
Best Practices for Moving Furniture Onto Laminate Floors
Now that we know it’s crucial to wait, the next step is learning the right way to move your furniture once the floor is ready.
1. Lift, Don’t Drag
Dragging furniture across laminate flooring can leave unsightly scratches and scuffs. Always lift the items, using help if necessary. For larger pieces, furniture sliders can make the job easier and prevent damage.
2. Use Felt Pads or Furniture Sliders
An excellent option to protect your laminate flooring is to place felt pads underneath furniture legs. These pads create a cushion that reduces the risk of scratching the floor. Another great choice is using furniture sliders. I recommend using the SuperSliders Furniture Movers, which have over 4.7 stars on Amazon and are known for their durability and ease of use. These will allow you to reposition heavy furniture without scratching or scuffing your new floor.
3. Avoid Rolling Chairs Without Mats
If you plan to use rolling office chairs or furniture with wheels, consider adding a protective floor mat to prevent repeated stress on the same area. Prolonged rolling can wear down the laminate, especially in high-traffic areas.
Additional Tips for Long-Term Laminate Floor Protection
1. Clean Regularly to Avoid Dust Build-Up
Dust and dirt can act like sandpaper underfoot, leading to gradual wear. Regularly sweeping or using a vacuum designed for hard floors will help keep your laminate floor looking new.
2. Use Rugs and Entry Mats
In areas with heavy foot traffic, such as entryways and hallways, placing non-slip rugs can protect against wear and tear. Consider using a rug pad, like the Gorilla Grip Original Felt and Rubber Pad, which helps keep rugs in place without damaging the floor underneath.
3. Be Mindful of Humidity
Laminate flooring is sensitive to moisture, so try to maintain a balanced indoor humidity level. Excess moisture can lead to warping or buckling. Investing in a dehumidifier can help, especially in areas with fluctuating humidity.
FAQ: Common Questions About Moving Furniture on Laminate Floors
1.Can You Put Heavy Appliances on Laminate Flooring?
Yes, but with caution. Heavy appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines should be placed on protective mats to avoid denting the laminate. Appliance floor protectors can distribute the weight and prevent direct pressure on the floor.
2.What Happens if You Move Furniture Too Soon?
Moving furniture too soon could lead to the laminate planks shifting, creating gaps or uneven surfaces. This not only damages the appearance of the floor but may also reduce its lifespan.
3.How Can I Prevent My Furniture From Scratching the Floor?
Using felt pads under the legs of your furniture is one of the simplest ways to prevent scratches. Furniture sliders also provide an effective solution when rearranging heavy items.
4.Can You Use Area Rugs on Laminate Floors?
Absolutely! Area rugs are a great way to protect your laminate flooring. Just make sure to avoid rugs with rubber backings as these can discolor the floor over time. Always use a rug pad, which will provide extra protection without trapping moisture.
5.Does the Floor Type Affect the Time I Need to Wait?
Whether the laminate is glued down or floating, the standard recommendation is to wait 24-48 hours before placing furniture. Floating floors rely on interlocking mechanisms, which can be easily disturbed if furniture is placed too early.
How Soon Can You Put Furniture on Laminate Flooring?-Wrapping It Up
So, how soon can you put furniture on laminate flooring? It’s always a good idea to wait 24 to 48 hours before doing so to allow your new laminate floor to fully acclimate and settle. Whether it’s a living room couch or a heavy dining table, patience during this period can ensure the longevity of your floor. Taking the right precautions, such as using felt pads and furniture sliders, will help maintain the floor’s beauty and prevent unnecessary damage.
As you plan your furniture arrangement, remember to handle your floor with care—your laminate will thank you for it. Follow the tips outlined in this guide, and your flooring will stay in top-notch condition for years to come.